It is my understanding that electronic medical records have been widely and successfully implemented in Newfoundland and Labrador. This was achieved by bringing hospitals and laboratories on board first, creating a stable structure, before engaging care providers. I envision a strong stable infrastructure, like the trunk of a tree. In Ontario, the implementation of electronic records has relied on the goodwill and financial resources of individual practitioners, especially “early adopters” who adopt e-records without a solid infrastructure in place. Funding is sporadic and inadequate. Not surprisingly, uptake is low. Without a strong central structure, the branches cannot support the weight of their fruit. As a family physician practising in Ontario, I am reluctant to dangle from the branches. I am even more reluctant to commit my staff and my patients to a process which historically creates more problems than it solves.
Footnotes
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For the full letter, go to: www.cmaj.ca/cgi/eletters/182/6/535#350470
REFERENCE
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